Synopsis
In Britain during the Blitz, a traveling theater company prepares to perform King Lear while Sir (John Mahoney), the actor in the title role, is spiraling into madness. Sir’s devoted dresser, Norman (Tracy Letts), would do anything to help lift his fallen monarch for one last stage triumph. The tragicomedy by Ronald Harwood, the Oscar-winning writer of The Pianist, is performed on an innovative set by Santo Loquasto, a long-time collaborator with Woody Allen. With a cast assembled of some of Chicago’s most esteemed actors, Steppenwolf’s The Dresser is a hilarious and heartbreaking tale of life in the theater performed by those who’ve spent a life in the theater.Running Time
Running Time: 2 hours 15 minutes, including 1 Intermission
Content Advisory
Steppenwolf does not offer advisories about subject matter, as sensitivities vary from person to person.If you have any questions about content, age-appropriateness or stage effects(such as strobe lights or theatrical fog) that might have a bearing on patron comfort, please contact the box office at 312-335-1650.
Watch & Listen
Cast & Artists
The Artists
- Sound Design: Michael Bodeen
- Costume Design: Nan Cibula-Jenkins
- Lighting Design: Pat Collins
- Scenic Design: Santo Loquasto
- Sound Design: Rob Milburn
- Directed by: ensemble member Amy Morton
- Stage Manager: Alison Ramsey
- Dramaturg: Nadine Warner
Featured Ensemble Members
Program Articles
The Dresser: Artistic Director Martha Lavey's Preview
For the first time, we are inviting our subscribers to enjoy one of their five–play series in the Upstairs Theatre. Producing one of our plays Upstairs gives us the opportunity to open up new weeks in the schedule.
The Dresser: Discussion with Curt Columbus, Amy Morton, and Tracy Letts
Associate Artistic Director Curt Columbus and ensemble members Amy Morton and Tracy Letts discuss The Dresser and their long association.
Plays During Wartime
Backstage asked artistic intern Patrick King to put together a list of some of the productions that could be grouped under the heading “Steppenwolf Goes to War.”